The Toronto Maple Leafs enter 2026-27 with a roster that looks far different from the group that missed the playoffs last NHL season. New general manager John Chayka and head coach Jim Hiller have changed the team’s goaltending, defense and forward depth.
That overhaul has given former Maple Leafs defenseman Carlo Colaiacovo reason to believe Toronto can return to the playoffs. Speaking on First Up, Colaiacovo pointed to the number of new pieces as a reason for optimism.
“I think it’s the first time in a long time where we’ve seen this much change to a roster,” Colaiacovo said. “And what does change normally provide?”
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He believes the fresh additions can create a different atmosphere around a team that spent years dealing with the same postseason questions. Toronto has moved away from its previous roster structure and added more depth around its core.
Two additions stand out for Colaiacovo. Darren Raddysh arrives after a 70-point season, while Sergei Bobrovsky gives Toronto an established veteran presence in goal.
Raddysh also addresses a longstanding issue on Toronto’s power play. Colaiacovo believes his shooting ability gives the unit an element it has lacked.
“A shot. A shot threat,” he said.
Sergei Bobrovsky could give Toronto stability
The goaltending change could be equally important. Bobrovsky has regularly handled heavy workloads, while Anthony Stolarz gives Toronto another experienced option.
“There’s more stability,” Colaiacovo said. “There’s more comfort in that knowing that you’ve got two guys right now with Anthony Stolarz and Bobrovsky who have a relationship.”
That relationship could allow Hiller to manage the tandem rather than relying heavily on one goaltender. Colaiacovo suggested Stolarz could handle 30 to 40 games, leaving Bobrovsky positioned for the postseason.
Toronto also rebuilt its bottom six with Nick Paul, Colton Sissons, Jack Roslovic, Teddy Blueger and Brandon Duhaime. The changes should give Hiller more options across four lines.
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Gavin McKenna adds another layer of optimism
The biggest source of excitement, however, could be first overall pick Gavin McKenna. Toronto selected the 18-year-old forward first overall after winning the 2026 NHL Draft Lottery.
“I forgot to mention the most exciting part,” Colaiacovo said. “You’ve added the number one overall pick.”
McKenna’s arrival gives Toronto another young offensive option alongside Auston Matthews, William Nylander and Easton Cowan. His potential also adds an element the previous roster lacked.
The overhaul does not guarantee a playoff berth. Toronto still needs its new pieces to fit under Hiller and perform consistently.
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But Colaiacovo sees enough change to believe this team deserves a fresh evaluation. For the Maple Leafs, that may be the biggest difference entering the season.
